Inkjet recording apparatus

Abstract

The first linear motion device (50) moves the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) relative to each other in a first coordinate axis direction. The rotation device (75) rotates the carriage (40) about a rotation axis (R) along the third coordinate axis direction. The inkjet head (30) is provided on a first side in the vertical direction (V) with respect to the recording surface (21), and ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles (31) toward a second side in the vertical direction (V) in a moving state in which the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) move relative to each other. The plurality of nozzles (31) are provided on the discharge surface (32) in the third coordinate axis direction. The second linear motion device (60) relatively moves the carriage (40) and the recording medium (20) in a second coordinate axis direction in a moving state. The rotating device (75), in the moving state, rotates the carriage (40) about a rotation axis (R) that is set at a position that coincides with the ejection surface (32) in the vertical direction (V) or at a position that is closer to the second side than the ejection surface (32).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inkjet recording device. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a printing device. The printing device prints a predetermined image by ejecting droplets onto a workpiece having a three-dimensional curved surface. The printing device includes a printing unit, a workpiece driving unit, and a control unit. The printing device includes a stage and a door-shaped frame. The frame is vertically arranged from the stage. The workpiece driving unit is arranged on the stage. The printing unit is arranged on the frame. The printing unit is arranged at a position above the printing surface of the workpiece. The printing unit includes an X-axis direct-acting mechanism and a plurality of inkjet units. The X-axis direct-acting mechanism is mounted on the frame. The plurality of inkjet units are respectively mounted on the X-axis direct-acting mechanism. The plurality of inkjet units are respectively moved in the main scanning direction by the X-axis direct-acting mechanism. The X-axis direct-acting mechanism is composed of a linear motor-type driving mechanism. The X-axis direct-acting mechanism drives the plurality of inkjet units individually in the X direction. The inkjet unit ejects droplets toward the workpiece while moving in the main scanning direction, thereby printing an image on the surface of the workpiece. The workpiece driving unit moves the workpiece relative to the inkjet unit. The image is also printed in the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction is orthogonal to the main scanning direction. The inkjet unit has a head and a curing unit. The curing unit cures the ink. A fixing fixture is installed at the front end of the workpiece drive unit. The workpiece is fixed on the fixing fixture. The workpiece drive unit transports the workpiece fixed to the fixing fixture to the bottom of the printing unit. The workpiece drive unit has a four-axis drive mechanism of a Y-axis direct-acting mechanism, a Z-axis direct-acting mechanism, an A-axis rotation mechanism, and a B-axis rotation mechanism. The Y-axis direct-acting mechanism is mounted on a stage and moves the workpiece in the sub-scanning direction. The Z-axis direct-acting mechanism is mounted on the Y-axis direct-acting mechanism and moves the workpiece in the up and down direction. The A-axis rotation mechanism rotates the workpiece around the A-axis. The A-axis extends in the X direction. The fixing fixture is mounted on the B-axis rotation mechanism. The B-axis rotation mechanism rotates the workpiece around the B-axis. The B-axis extends in the Z direction. The workpiece drive unit moves the workpiece to the bottom of the inkjet unit by operating the Y-axis direct-acting mechanism, the Z-axis direct-acting mechanism, the A-axis rotation mechanism, and the B-axis rotation mechanism. The position and posture of the workpiece are adjusted by the workpiece drive unit. In addition, the workpiece drive unit has a five-axis drive mechanism, namely, a Y-axis direct-acting mechanism, a Z-axis direct-acting mechanism, an A-axis rotation mechanism, a B-axis rotation mechanism, and a C-axis rotation mechanism. The C-axis rotation mechanism rotates the workpiece around the C-axis. The C-axis extends in the Z direction. By increasing the number of drive mechanisms of the workpiece drive unit, the adjustment range of the workpiece posture can be further expanded.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-88110 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The inkjet recording device ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles of an inkjet head onto the surface of a recording medium, and records a pattern on the recording surface of the recording medium. Examples of recording media include housings (housings) of electrical equipment, interior and exterior materials for vehicles and buildings, and furniture. That is, the recording medium becomes a component for forming various products in a state where a pattern is recorded on the recording surface, or becomes a component for various products. In such a recording medium, the recording surface sometimes has a three-dimensional shape.

[0008] The inventor has studied a technique for recording a pattern by an inkjet recording device in a manner matching a recording surface having a three-dimensional shape having the following form. The form has a surface shape that is different in position in the first coordinate axis direction and in the second coordinate axis direction and is along the third coordinate axis direction. Examples of surface shapes that are different in position in the second coordinate axis direction include steps, convex shapes, and concave shapes. The second coordinate axis direction is orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction. The third coordinate axis direction is orthogonal to both the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an inkjet recording apparatus capable of recording a pattern in accordance with a recording surface of a recording medium.

[0010] Solutions to Solve Problems

[0011] One embodiment of the present invention provides an inkjet recording device, which comprises: an inkjet head including a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording surface of a recording medium; a carriage carrying the inkjet head; a first direct-acting device for moving the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in a first coordinate axis direction; a second direct-acting device for moving the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in a second coordinate axis direction orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction; and a rotating device for rotating the carriage around a rotation axis along a third coordinate axis direction orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction. With respect to the inkjet head, a third direction including the plurality of nozzles is disposed relative to the recording surface. The ink is ejected from the plurality of nozzles to a second side opposite to the first side in the vertical direction at a first side in the vertical direction perpendicular to the ejection surface, and in a moving state in which the slide and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis by the first direct-acting device, the plurality of nozzles are arranged on the ejection surface along the third coordinate axis, the second direct-acting device causes the slide and the recording medium to relatively move in the second coordinate axis direction in the moving state, the rotating device causes the slide to rotate around the rotating axis in the moving state, and the rotating axis is set at a position consistent with the ejection surface in the vertical direction or at a position closer to the second side than the ejection surface.

[0012] The rotating device may rotate the carriage about the rotating axis, and the rotating axis may be set at a position that coincides with the ejection surface in the vertical direction.

[0013] The inkjet recording apparatus may include a third linear motion device that moves the carriage and the recording medium relative to each other in the third coordinate axis direction.

[0014] According to the above-mentioned inkjet recording device, the inkjet head can be rotated together with the carriage with the rotation axis as the center in the moving state. For example, the recording surface has the following stepped shape. The position of the stepped shape in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction is different and is along the third coordinate axis direction. Even in such a case, in the inkjet recording device, it is possible to maintain a constant distance between the ejection surface and the recording surface in the moving state and make the ejection surface along the recording surface, and make the carriage and the recording medium move relatively along the first coordinate axis direction. In the inkjet recording device, it is possible to make it easy to control the ejection of ink.

[0015] Alternatively, the inkjet recording device may include a third direct-acting device, which supports the slide and moves the slide in the direction of the third coordinate axis, and the second direct-acting device moves the slide in the direction of the second coordinate axis. The rotating device may include: a first support member, which supports the third direct-acting device; a driving machine, which is connected to the first support member and generates a driving force that causes the first support member to rotate around the rotation axis; and a second support member, which is provided with the driving machine and supports the first support member so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis. The first support member may include: a first frame, which is arranged along the third Coordinate axis direction; a second frame, which is arranged along the vertical direction on the third side of the first frame in the direction of the third coordinate axis, and is connected to the first frame on the first side in the vertical direction; and a third frame, which is arranged along the vertical direction on the fourth side of the first frame in the direction of the third coordinate axis, and is connected to the first frame on the first side in the vertical direction, and is connected to the second support member through the second frame, and is connected to the driving machine through the third frame, the second direct-acting device is connected to the rotating device through the second support member, so that the rotating device moves in the direction of the second coordinate axis.

[0016] According to this structure, the dimension of the inkjet recording device in the direction of the third coordinate axis can be miniaturized compared to the inkjet recording device of the comparative example as follows. In the inkjet recording device of the comparative example, the rotating device that rotates the slide moves along the third coordinate axis together with the slide. In the inkjet recording device of the comparative example, the moving object in the direction of the third coordinate axis includes the rotating device, so it is necessary to increase the dimension of the following area in the direction of the third coordinate axis. This area is necessary for the moving object to move in the direction of the third coordinate axis. In other words, this area becomes the moving path when the moving object moves in the direction of the third coordinate axis. In the above structure, the rotating device does not move in the direction of the third coordinate axis, so the size expansion like the inkjet recording device of the comparative example does not occur.

[0017] Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain an inkjet recording apparatus capable of recording a pattern in accordance with a recording surface of a recording medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording device. It shows a state during a pattern recording operation. It shows a state in which the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a schematic structure of an example of an inkjet recording device in a pattern recording operation, omitting a portion thereof. It shows a state where the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction, and the inkjet head ejects ink toward the first surface of the recording surface. It shows a state where the inkjet recording device is viewed from the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a schematic structure of an example of an inkjet recording device in a pattern recording operation, omitting a portion thereof. It shows a state in which the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction and the inkjet head ejects ink toward the inclined surface of the recording surface. It shows a state in which the inkjet recording device is viewed from the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional front view showing a schematic structure of an example of an inkjet recording device in a pattern recording operation, omitting a portion thereof. It shows a state where the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction, and the inkjet head ejects ink toward the second surface of the recording surface. It shows a state where the inkjet recording device is viewed from the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction.

[0023] Figure 5This is a partial cross-sectional side view showing an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording device in a pattern recording operation. It shows a state where the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction, and the inkjet head ejects ink toward the first surface of the recording surface. It shows a state where the inkjet recording device is viewed from the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction.

[0024] Figure 6 1 is a partial cross-sectional side view showing an example of the schematic structure of an inkjet recording device in a pattern recording operation. The slide and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction, and the inkjet head ejects ink onto the first surface of the recording surface. Figure 5 The carriage and the recording medium are used as references, and the carriage is relatively moved to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction relative to the recording medium by a conveying distance. The state of the inkjet recording device viewed from the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction is shown.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing an example of a schematic structure of an inkjet head. The ejection surface of the inkjet head is shown.

[0026] Figure 8 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state in which the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction. The upper section corresponds to the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example, and the rotation axis is set at a position closer to the first side than the ejection surface in the vertical direction. The lower section corresponds to the inkjet recording device of the embodiment, and the rotation axis is set at a position consistent with the ejection surface in the vertical direction. The inkjet recording device of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording device of the embodiment are shown as viewed from the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The embodiments for implementing the present invention are described using the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the structures described below, and various structures can be adopted under the same technical concept. For example, a part of the structure shown below can also be omitted or replaced with other structures. The present invention can also include other structures. The accompanying drawings schematically show the predetermined structures. The correspondence between each drawing and other drawings, or with the numerical values ​​described later that determine the structure in the drawings is sometimes inaccurate. The hatched lines represent the cut surface. The single-dash line is the center line. The double-dash line is an imaginary line.

[0028] <Inkjet Recording Device 10>

[0029] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The inkjet recording device 10 is described. In the embodiment, the inkjet recording device 10 is identified by the first coordinate axis direction, the second coordinate axis direction, the third coordinate axis direction, and the vertical direction V. The recording medium 20 is also set in the inkjet recording device 10 (see Figure 1) is used as a reference and is determined by the first coordinate axis direction, the second coordinate axis direction, and the third coordinate axis direction. The second coordinate axis direction is orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction. The third coordinate axis direction is orthogonal to both the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction. The second coordinate axis direction is set to the vertical direction. In this case, the first coordinate axis direction and the third coordinate axis direction are horizontal directions. One side of the vertical direction V is called the "first side", and the other side of the vertical direction V opposite to the first side is called the "second side". One side of the third coordinate axis direction is called the "third side", and the other side of the third coordinate axis direction opposite to the third side is called the "fourth side". One side of the first coordinate axis direction is called the "fifth side", and the other side of the first coordinate axis direction opposite to the fifth side is called the "sixth side". One side of the second coordinate axis direction is called the "seventh side", and the other side of the second coordinate axis direction opposite to the seventh side is called the "eighth side". The seventh side of the second coordinate axis direction is set to the upper side in the vertical direction, and the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction is set to the lower side in the vertical direction. The vertical direction V will be described later.

[0030] The inkjet recording device 10 includes an inkjet head 30, a carriage 40, a first linear motion device 50, a second linear motion device 60, a rotating device 75, and a third linear motion device 90 (see Figure 1 ). In addition, the inkjet recording device 10 includes a stand 11, a main tank 12, and an ink flow path 13. The stand 11 is provided with a second direct-acting device 60 (see Figures 1 to 5 The main tank 12 stores ink (see Figure 5 , 6 The ink flow path 13 connects the main tank 12 and the inkjet head 30 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The ink flows from the main tank 12 through the ink flow path 13 and is supplied to the inkjet head 30.

[0031] exist Figures 2 to 4 In the figure, the main tank 12 and the ink flow path 13 are omitted. Figure 1 , 5 , 6, the ink flow path 13 is simplified. The ink flow path 13 has a form that can cope with the movement of the inkjet head 30 in the second coordinate axis direction, the movement of the inkjet head 30 in the third coordinate axis direction, and the rotation of the inkjet head 30 around the rotation axis R. The movement of the inkjet head 30 in the second coordinate axis direction, the movement of the inkjet head 30 in the third coordinate axis direction, the rotation of the inkjet head 30 around the rotation axis R, and the rotation axis R will be described later.

[0032] The ink flow path 13 may also include a sub-tank. In the embodiment, the sub-tank is omitted from the illustration. In the case where the ink flow path 13 includes the sub-tank, the ink flows out from the main tank 12 and is stored in the sub-tank in the middle of flowing in the ink flow path 13. The ink flow path 13 allows the ink flowing out of the sub-tank to flow to the inkjet head 30. The sub-tank is used in an already practical inkjet recording device and is well known. Therefore, other descriptions about the sub-tank are omitted.

[0033] The inkjet recording device 10 operates the inkjet head 30, the first linear motion device 50, the second linear motion device 60, the rotation device 75, and the third linear motion device 90 to record a pattern on the recording surface 21 of the recording medium 20 (see Figures 1 to 6 ). The inkjet recording device 10 can record a full-color pattern on the recording surface 21 by using inks of multiple colors to record the pattern. Figure 1 , 5 , 6, the texture marked on the recording surface 21 corresponds to the pattern. Examples of ink colors include yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. However, inks of different colors from these may also be used in recording the pattern. The number of ink colors may be less than 3 or more than 5. In the embodiment, the ink color is not specified, and the description is made with an arbitrary color as the object.

[0034] The recording surface 21 has a step shape in which the position in the second coordinate axis direction is different from that in the first coordinate axis direction and along the third coordinate axis direction. In an embodiment, the recording surface 21 includes a step formed by the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23 and the second surface 24. The first surface 22, the inclined surface 23 and the second surface 24 are connected from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction in the order of the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23 and the second surface 24. The first surface 22 and the second surface 24 have a flat shape. With respect to the position of the first surface 22 and the second surface 24 in the second coordinate axis direction, the first surface 22 is located on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction than the second surface 24. The inclined surface 23 is inclined from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction as it moves from the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction toward the sixth side. The inclined surface 23 is connected to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction of the first surface 22 on the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction, and is connected to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction of the second surface 24 on the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction.

[0035] The carriage 40 carries the inkjet head 30 (see Figures 1 to 7 The first linear motion device 50 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relatively along the first coordinate axis direction (see Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2). In the embodiment, during the pattern recording operation, the relative movement based on the first direct motion device 50 is performed by moving the recording medium 20 along the first coordinate axis direction. That is, during the pattern recording operation, the first direct motion device 50 reciprocates the recording medium 20 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction.

[0036] The inkjet head 30 includes a plurality of nozzles 31 on a discharge surface 32 (see Figures 5 to 7 ).exist Figures 5 to 7 In the figure, a part of the plurality of nozzles 31 is denoted by reference numeral "31". The ejection surface 32 is opposed to the recording surface 21 in the vertical direction V in the moving state (see Figures 2 to 6 In the moving state, the recording medium 20 is moved along the first coordinate axis direction by the first linear motion device 50 (refer to Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The vertical direction V is perpendicular to the ejection surface 32 (refer to Figures 2 to 6 When the ejection surface 32 is in a horizontal state, the vertical direction V coincides with the second coordinate axis direction (refer to Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 6 The inkjet head 30 is disposed on the first side in the vertical direction V relative to the recording surface 21 (see Figures 2 to 6 ).

[0037] The plurality of nozzles 31 are opened on the ejection surface 32. The plurality of nozzles 31 are arranged on the ejection surface 32 along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figures 5 to 7 ). The plurality of nozzles 31 are arranged on the ejection surface 32 along the third coordinate axis direction. In the embodiment, the plurality of nozzles 31 are arranged in a row on the ejection surface 32 (see Figure 7 ). However, the configuration of the plurality of nozzles 31 on the ejection surface 32 is illustrative. With respect to the plurality of nozzles 31, a plurality of rows of nozzle rows along the direction of the third coordinate axis may also be configured. In this case, the nozzle row is formed by configuring a portion of the plurality of nozzles 31 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The plurality of nozzles 31 are configured in two rows on the ejection surface 32. In this case, half of the nozzles 31 form a first row of nozzle rows along the direction of the third coordinate axis, and the remaining nozzles 31 form a second row of nozzle rows along the direction of the third coordinate axis. The two rows of nozzle rows are adjacent in the next direction on the ejection surface 32. This direction is orthogonal to the third coordinate axis direction within the ejection surface 32. The two rows of nozzle rows are configured to be staggered by a predetermined amount along the third coordinate axis direction. That is, the plurality of nozzles 31 are configured in two staggered rows on the ejection surface 32. The configuration of the plurality of nozzles 31 is appropriately determined in consideration of various conditions.

[0038] The plurality of nozzles 31 eject ink toward the recording surface 21 (see Figures 1 to 6). That is, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 toward the recording surface 21. At this time, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 in the vertical direction V. Furthermore, the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 while moving. Figures 2 to 6 In the figure, the ink ejected from the nozzle 31 is omitted. The ink lands on the recording surface 21.

[0039] Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles 31 on the first surface 22 (see Figure 2 , Figure 5 , 6 In this case, the ink is ejected onto the first surface 22. Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from the plurality of nozzles 31 onto the inclined surface 23 (see Figure 3 In this case, the ink is ejected onto the inclined surface 23. Assume that the inkjet head 30 ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles 31 onto the second surface 24 (see Figure 4 In this case, the ink is ejected onto the second surface 24. The inkjet head 30 ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles 31 on the recording surface 21 in a vertical direction V toward the recording surface 21, and records a pattern on the recording surface 21 (see Figures 1 to 6 ).

[0040] The inkjet head 30 includes a supply port 33 and an internal flow path 34 (see Figure 5 , 6 ). The ink flow path 13 is connected to the supply port 33. The ink flows from the ink flow path 13 through the supply port 33 into the inkjet head 30. The internal flow path 34 connects the supply port 33 and the plurality of nozzles 31. The ink flowing in from the supply port 33 flows in the internal flow path 34 and reaches the plurality of nozzles 31.

[0041] The internal flow path 34 includes a main flow section 35 and a plurality of branch sections 36. The main flow section 35 is continuous from the supply port 33 and is formed along the third coordinate axis. The ink flowing in from the supply port 33 flows in the main flow section 35. The plurality of branch sections 36 branch from the main flow section 35 and are respectively connected to the plurality of nozzles 31. The ink flowing in from the main flow section 35 flows through the branch sections 36 and reaches the plurality of nozzles 31. Figure 5 , 6 In the figure, one of the plurality of branch portions 36 is denoted by reference numeral “36”.

[0042] As an example of a direct-acting mechanism that can be used as the first direct-acting device 50, a linear motor actuator can be cited. In the embodiment, a linear motor actuator is exemplified as the first direct-acting device 50. However, the direct-acting mechanism adopted as the first direct-acting device 50 may not be a linear motor actuator. For example, the direct-acting mechanism adopted as the first direct-acting device 50 may also be a combination of a ball screw, a motor, and a guide. As an example of a guide, a combination of a linear shaft and a bushing can be cited. As an example of a bushing, a linear bushing can be cited. In addition, as examples of guides, linear guides and ball splines can be cited. The direct-acting mechanism adopted as the first direct-acting device 50 is appropriately determined in consideration of various conditions.

[0043] The first straight motion device 50 includes a mounting table 51, a fixing member 52, and a movable member 53. The recording medium 20 (see Figures 1 to 6 ). The recording medium 20 is placed on the mounting table 51 with the recording surface 21 in the above-mentioned state. That is, in the recording medium 20 on the mounting table 51, the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23, and the second surface 24 are connected along the first coordinate axis direction. The recording surface 21 has a step shape along the third coordinate axis direction with different positions in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction.

[0044] The fixed member 52 is arranged along the first coordinate axis direction. The movable member 53 moves on the fixed member 52 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction due to the propulsion force acting on the movable member 53 between the fixed member 52 (see Figures 2 to 4 The movable member 53 moves on the fixed member 52 from the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction to the fifth side due to the thrust force acting on the movable member 53 between the movable member 53 and the fixed member 52 (see Figure 4~2 ). A stage 51 is provided on the movable member 53. The first direct motion device 50 moves the stage 51 along the first coordinate axis direction by moving the movable member 53 along the first coordinate axis direction. Accordingly, the first direct motion device 50 reciprocates the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction.

[0045] The second direct-acting device 60 moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 relatively along the second coordinate axis direction (see Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2). In an embodiment, during the recording work of the pattern, the relative movement based on the second direct-acting device 60 is performed by moving the carriage 40 along the second coordinate axis direction. That is, the second direct-acting device 60 moves the carriage 40 from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction, and moves the carriage 40 from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction during the recording work of the pattern. However, in the inkjet recording device 10, the movement of the carriage 40 in the second coordinate axis direction based on the second direct-acting device 60 is performed by moving the rotating device 75 from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction. That is, the second direct-acting device 60 is mounted on the rotating device 75, and the rotating device 75 moves from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction. The connection structure of the second direct-acting device 60 and the rotating device 75 will be described later.

[0046] The inkjet recording device 10 uses a direct-acting mechanism as the second direct-acting device 60. Examples of direct-acting mechanisms that can be used as the second direct-acting device 60 include a combination of a ball screw, a drive machine, and a transmission mechanism. In the embodiment, as the second direct-acting device 60, the aforementioned combination is exemplified. In this case, the second direct-acting device 60 includes ball screws 61, 62, a drive machine 65, and a transmission mechanism 66 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6).

[0047] The ball screw 61 is arranged on the third side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first direct motion device 50. The ball screw 62 is arranged on the fourth side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first direct motion device 50. In the ball screws 61 and 62, the screw shaft 63 is arranged to be freely rotatable along the second coordinate axis direction, and the nut 64 moves along the second coordinate axis direction according to the rotation of the screw shaft 63. As the driving machine 65, a rotating machine such as a motor can be used. As an example of the driving machine 65, a servo motor can be cited. The servo motor as the driving machine 65 includes an encoder. The driving machine 65 generates a driving force to rotate the screw shaft 63. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , an arc-shaped arrow shown on the outer circumference of the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62 indicates the rotation direction of the screw shaft 63 .

[0048] The transmission mechanism 66 connects the ball screws 61, 62 and the drive machine 65 (see Figure 1). The transmission mechanism 66 transmits the driving force generated by the driving machine 65 to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62. In other words, the transmission mechanism 66 transmits the rotation of the driving machine 65 to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62. As examples of the transmission mechanism 66, a combination of a gear box and a shaft, a combination of a pulley and a timing belt, and a combination of a sprocket and a chain can be cited. The specifications of the transmission mechanism 66 are appropriately determined in consideration of various conditions. In the embodiment, as the transmission mechanism 66, a combination of a gear box and a shaft is exemplified. In this case, the transmission mechanism 66 includes gear boxes 67, 68, 69 and shafts 70, 71.

[0049] The gear box 67 branches the driving force of the driving machine 65 into a first driving force and a second driving force. The shaft 70 connects the gear boxes 67 and 68 and transmits the first driving force to the gear box 68. The gear box 68 transmits the first driving force to the ball screw 61. The shaft 71 connects the gear boxes 67 and 69 and transmits the second driving force to the gear box 69. The gear box 69 transmits the second driving force to the ball screw 62. That is, the driving machine 65 rotates the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 61 via the gear box 67, the shaft 70 and the gear box 68, and rotates the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 62 via the gear box 67, the shaft 71 and the gear box 69. In the second direct-acting device 60, the screw shafts 63 of the ball screws 61 and 62 rotate (synchronously rotate) by the same amount in the same direction at the same speed.

[0050] The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 around the rotation axis R in the moving state (see Figure 1 , Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (refer to Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The rotation axis R is set at a position that is consistent with the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V or at a position closer to the second side than the ejection surface 32. In the embodiment, the rotation device 75 (see Figure 5 , 6 ).exist Figure 1 In FIG. 4 , an arc arrow with the rotation axis R as the center indicates the rotation direction of the carriage 40 .

[0051] The rotating device 75 includes a first support member 76, a driving machine 80, and a second support member 81 (see Figure 1 , 5, 6). The first support member 76 includes a first frame 77, a second frame 78 and a third frame 79. The first frame 77 is arranged in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second frame 78 is arranged along the vertical direction V on the third side of the third coordinate axis of the first frame 77. The second frame 78 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The third frame 79 is arranged along the vertical direction V on the fourth side of the third coordinate axis of the first frame 77. The third frame 79 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The first support member 76 is connected to the second support member 81 through the second frame 78, and is connected to the driving machine 80 through the third frame 79. The first support member 76 supports the third direct-acting device 90. The support structure of the first support member 76 for the third direct-acting device 90 will be described later.

[0052] As the driving machine 80, a rotating machine such as a motor can be used. As an example of the driving machine 80, a servo motor can be cited. The servo motor as the driving machine 80 includes an encoder. The driving machine 80 generates the following driving force. The driving force causes the carriage 40 to rotate around the rotation axis R. The shaft of the servo motor as the driving machine 80 is fixed to the third frame 79.

[0053] The second support member 81 is provided with a driving machine 80. The second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis R. The second support member 81 includes a first mounting member 82 and a second mounting member 83. The first mounting member 82 is provided on the third side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first support member 76. The first mounting member 82 is fixed to the nut 64 of the ball screw 61. The first mounting member 82 is connected to the second frame 78 and supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis R. The second mounting member 83 is provided on the fourth side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first support member 76. The second mounting member 83 is fixed to the nut 64 of the ball screw 62. The second mounting member 83 is provided with a driving machine 80 in the following state. In this state, the shaft of the servo motor is fixed to the third frame 79. That is, the driving machine 80 is provided on the second support member 81, and the second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis R. The second support member 81 connects the second linear motion device 60 and the rotating device 75 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). In other words, the second direct-acting device 60 is connected to the rotating device 75 via the second supporting member 81.

[0054] The third direct-acting device 90 relatively moves the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 , 5, 6). In the embodiment, during the recording operation of the pattern, the relative movement based on the third direct-acting device 90 is performed by moving the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis. That is, the third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis during the recording operation of the pattern.

[0055] In the pattern recording operation, the third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction in accordance with the next first main scan and the second main scan. In the first main scan, the first direct-acting device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction (see Figures 2 to 4 In the second main scan, the first linear motion device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the mounting table 51 from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction (see Figure 4~2 That is, in the pattern recording operation, the movement of the carriage 40 based on the third direct-acting device 90 is intermittently performed according to the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 arriving at the moving end on the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction accompanying the first main scan and the recording medium 20 on the stage 51 arriving at the moving end on the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction accompanying the second main scan.

[0056] The third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction by a conveying distance T (see Figure 5 , 6 The conveying distance T can also be determined based on the nozzle area N (see Figure 7 ) is determined by the dimension of the nozzle region N in the third coordinate axis direction. For example, the conveying distance T is set to be less than or equal to the dimension of the nozzle region N in the third coordinate axis direction. The nozzle region N will be described later.

[0057] The inkjet recording device 10 uses a direct-acting mechanism as the third direct-acting device 90. As an example of a direct-acting mechanism that can be used as the third direct-acting device 90, a combination of a ball screw, a driving machine, and a guide can be cited. In the embodiment, as the third direct-acting device 90, the aforementioned combination is exemplified. In this case, the third direct-acting device 90 includes a ball screw 91, a driving machine 94, and a guide 95 (see Figure 1 ). The third direct-acting device 90 uses a linear shaft 96 and a linear bushing 97 as a guide 95. However, the guide 95 may use a bushing of a different type from the linear bushing 97. In addition, a linear guide or a ball spline may be used as the guide 95. The specification of the guide 95 is appropriately determined in consideration of various conditions.

[0058] The screw shaft 92 of the ball screw 91 is arranged to be rotatable along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1). The nut 93 of the ball screw 91 moves along the third coordinate axis according to the rotation of the screw shaft 92. The driving machine 94 is connected to the screw shaft 92. As the driving machine 94, a rotating machine such as a motor can be used. As an example of the driving machine 94, a servo motor can be cited. The servo motor as the driving machine 94 includes an encoder. The driving machine 94 rotates the screw shaft 92. Figure 1 In FIG. 1 , an arc-shaped arrow shown at a third side end of the screw shaft 92 in the third coordinate axis direction indicates a rotation direction of the screw shaft 92 .

[0059] In a state where the screw shaft 92 and the driving machine 94 are connected, the front end of the screw shaft 92 is rotatably supported on the second frame 78, and the driving machine 94 is provided on the third frame 79 (see Figure 1 In the guide 95, similarly to the screw shaft 92 of the ball screw 91, the linear shaft 96 is provided along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The linear shaft 96 is supported by the second frame 78 and the third frame 79. The linear bushing 97 moves along the linear shaft 96 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The carriage 40 is fixed to the nut 93 and the linear bushing 97.

[0060] In the inkjet recording device 10, the driving machine 94 rotates the screw shaft 92 in a predetermined direction, so that the nut 93 moves from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 ). In this case, the driving machine 94 rotates the screw shaft 92 by the next rotation amount. The rotation amount sets the movement amount of the nut 93 from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction as the conveying distance T. The carriage 40 moves the same amount (conveying distance T) in the same direction as the nut 93 that moves the conveying distance T from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction (refer to Figure 5 , 6 The drive machine 94 rotates the screw shaft 92 in the direction opposite to the above-mentioned direction, so that the nut 93 moves from the fourth side to the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis (see Figure 1 In this case, the drive machine 94 rotates the screw shaft 92 by the next rotation amount. For example, the rotation amount causes the carriage 40 to return to the moving end of the third side in the third coordinate axis direction. The carriage 40 moves in the same direction and by the same amount as the nut 93 moving from the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction to the third side (refer to Figure 6 , Figure 5 In the embodiment, the illustration of the state where the carriage 40 is moved to the two moving ends on the third side and the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction is omitted.

[0061] The guide 95 guides the movement of the carriage 40 from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction and from the fourth side to the third side in the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). In other words, the carriage 40 moves from the third side to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction and from the fourth side to the third side in the third coordinate axis direction while being guided by the guide member 95 (see Figure 5 , 6 as well as Figure 6 , Figure 5 ).

[0062] The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 around the rotation axis R in the moving state so that the ejection surface 32 is parallel to the next imaginary straight line L (see Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The imaginary straight line L passes through the opposing position P2 and is perpendicular to the vertical direction V. The opposing position P2 is the position of the recording surface 21 closest to the reference position P1 in the vertical direction V. The reference position P1 may also be set to the center of the nozzle area N of the ejection surface 32 (refer to Figure 7 ). In the nozzle area N, a plurality of nozzles 31 are provided on the ejection surface 32.

[0063] The nozzle area N can also be referred to as a rectangular shape having the following first side, second side, third side, and fourth side as four sides (see Figure 7 ). The first side and the second side are along the first coordinate axis direction, and the third side and the fourth side are along the third coordinate axis direction. The first side and the nozzle 31 located closest to the third side in the third coordinate axis direction among the plurality of nozzles 31 (refer to Figure 7 The second side is connected to the nozzle 31 located closest to the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction among the plurality of nozzles 31 (refer to Figure 7 The third side is connected to the fifth side end in the first coordinate axis direction of the nozzle 31 located closest to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction among the multiple nozzles 31. The fourth side is connected to the sixth side end in the first coordinate axis direction of the nozzle 31 located closest to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction among the multiple nozzles 31.

[0064] In the embodiment, the number of the nozzles 31 is 5, and the 5 nozzles 31 have the same shape and are arranged in a row along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 7 ). The reference position P1 is the center of the nozzle area N of the ejection surface 32. In this case, the reference position P1 coincides with the position of the central nozzle 31 among the five nozzles 31. The inkjet recording device 10 sets the reference position P1 and the position of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction to the same position (refer to Figures 5 to 7 and the following Figure 8 next paragraph).

[0065] In the embodiment, when the recording medium 20 is placed on the mounting table 51, the first surface 22 and the second surface 24 are horizontal surfaces, and the inclined surface 23 is a plane inclined at a constant angle (see Figures 1 to 4 In the first mode of the moving state, the next imaginary straight line L is along the first surface 22. The imaginary straight line L passes through the opposing position P2 of the first surface 22 (refer to Figure 2 In the first mode of the moving state, the first surface 22 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the first mode of the moving state, the first surface 22 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32. In the second mode of the moving state, the next imaginary straight line L is along the inclined surface 23. This imaginary straight line L passes through the opposing position P2 of the inclined surface 23 (refer to Figure 3 In the second mode of the moving state, the inclined surface 23 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the second mode of the moving state, the inclined surface 23 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32. In the third mode of the moving state, the next imaginary straight line L is along the second surface 24. This imaginary straight line L passes through the opposing position P2 of the second surface 24 (refer to Figure 4 In the third mode of the moving state, the second surface 24 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the eighth side of the second coordinate axis direction of the inkjet head 30. In other words, in the third mode of the moving state, the second surface 24 of the recording medium 20 moves along the first coordinate axis direction on the second side of the vertical direction V of the ejection surface 32.

[0066] The second direct-acting device 60 moves the inkjet head 30 relative to the recording surface 21 along the second coordinate axis direction in the moving state, and sets the separation distance D in the vertical direction V between the reference position P1 and the opposing position P2 to be constant (refer to Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The separation distance D may be set to “0 mm < separation distance D ≤ 10 mm”. For example, the separation distance D may be set to 1 mm.

[0067] <Effects of Implementation Methods>

[0068] According to the embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0069] (1) The inkjet recording device 10 includes an inkjet head 30, a carriage 40, a first linear motion device 50, a second linear motion device 60, a rotating device 75, and a third linear motion device 90 (see Figure 1 ).

[0070] The inkjet head 30 includes a plurality of nozzles 31 (see Figures 5 to 7 ). The plurality of nozzles 31 eject ink toward the recording surface 21 (see Figures 1 to 6 The carriage 40 carries the inkjet head 30 (see Figures 1 to 7 The first linear motion device 50 moves the recording medium 20 relative to the carriage 40 along the first coordinate axis direction (see Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 The second direct-acting device 60 moves the carriage 40 relative to the recording medium 20 along the second coordinate axis direction in the moving state (refer to Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 around the rotation axis R in the moving state (see Figure 1 , Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (refer to Figure 1 , 5 , 6). Furthermore, the rotation axis R is set at a position that coincides with the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V (see Figure 5 , 6 The third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 relative to the recording medium 20 along the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6).

[0071] According to the inkjet recording device 10, the inkjet head 30 can be rotated together with the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R in the moving state. Even when the recording surface 21 includes the first surface 22, the inclined surface 23, and the second surface 24, in the inkjet recording device 10, the separation distance D can be maintained at a constant distance and the ejection surface 32 can be moved along the recording surface 21 while the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 can be relatively moved in the first coordinate axis direction in the moving state. The inkjet recording device 10 can record a pattern in accordance with the recording surface 21.

[0072] Assuming the following first comparative example of the inkjet recording apparatus, the first comparative example of the inkjet recording apparatus and the inkjet recording apparatus 10 are compared (refer to Figure 8 ). The inkjet recording device of the first comparative example includes the same elements as the inkjet recording device 10. However, the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example is different from the inkjet recording device 10 in that the rotation axis R is set at a position closer to the first side than the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V (refer to Figure 8In the upper paragraph, the symbols of the elements of the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example are the same as those of the inkjet recording device 10 in order to facilitate the correspondence with the inkjet recording device 10. Figure 8 In the figure, the inkjet head 30, a part of the carriage 40, a part of the first direct motion device 50, and the recording medium 20 are shown, and the illustration of other elements that identify the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example and the inkjet recording device 10 is omitted.

[0073] This description takes as an example the case where the first linear motion device 50 moves the recording medium 20 from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction relative to the carriage 40 (see Figure 8 In this case, the carriage 40 moves relative to the recording medium 20 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction. In this case, the inkjet head 30 moves relative to the recording surface 21 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction (see Figure 8 ). Furthermore, the inkjet recording device and the inkjet recording device 10 of the first comparative example rotate the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R during the movement from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, so that the ejection surface 32 is parallel to the imaginary straight line L, and the separation distance D is set to be constant (refer to Figure 8 ).

[0074] In the inkjet recording device of the first comparison example and the inkjet recording device 10, the position (coordinate value) of the reference position P1 in the direction of the first coordinate axis changes to the same side as the carriage 40 (inkjet head 30) moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis relative to the recording medium 20.

[0075] In the inkjet recording apparatus of the first comparative example, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23. In this case, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction changes from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction in the opposite direction to the reference position P1 (refer to Figure 8"Position A, B" in the upper section (arrow between "rotation axis R" of "position A" and "rotation axis R" of "position B")). This is caused by the rotation of the carriage 40 toward the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction around the rotation axis R. Afterwards, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the opposing position P2 further moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction on the inclined surface 23. In this case, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction changes from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction, similarly to the reference position P1 (refer to Figure 8 "Positions B, C" in the previous paragraph).

[0076] In contrast, the inkjet recording device 10 can make the reference position P1 and the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction consistent. Therefore, in the inkjet recording device 10, during the movement of the reference position P1 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction does not change from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction. In the inkjet recording device 10, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23. In this case, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction changes from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction, similarly to the reference position P1 (refer to Figure 8 After that, as the reference position P1 moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the opposing position P2 further moves from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction on the inclined surface 23. In this case, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction changes from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the eighth side to the seventh side in the second coordinate axis direction, similarly to the reference position P1 (see Figure 8 "Positions B, C" in the lower paragraph).

[0077] In the inkjet recording device 10, as described above, when the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 move relative to each other in the first coordinate axis direction, the following phenomenon that occurs in the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example does not occur. In this phenomenon, the changes in the positions (coordinate values) of the reference position P1 and the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction are opposite. Therefore, in the inkjet recording device 10, the ejection control of the ink can be easily performed.

[0078] In the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example, in the complicated ink ejection control, the moving speed of the movable part 53 can also be changed at the following moment. At this moment, the opposing position P2 moves from the first surface 22 to the inclined surface 23, and from the inclined surface 23 to the first surface 22. However, the change in the moving speed of the movable part 53 is accompanied by the deceleration and acceleration of the movable part 53. Therefore, in the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example, it is also assumed that a vibration countermeasure caused by the deceleration and acceleration of the movable part 53 is required. In the inkjet recording device 10, since the ink ejection control is easy, the deceleration and acceleration of the movable part 53 at the aforementioned moment can be omitted. Therefore, in the inkjet recording device 10, the vibration countermeasure assumed in the inkjet recording device of the first comparative example can also be omitted.

[0079] (2) The rotating device 75 includes a first support member 76, a driving machine 80, and a second support member 81 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The first support member 76 supports the third direct-acting device 90. The driving machine 80 is connected to the first support member 76. The driving machine 80 generates a driving force for rotating the first support member 76 around the rotation axis R. The driving machine 80 is provided on the second support member 81. The second support member 81 supports the first support member 76 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis R.

[0080] The first support member 76 includes a first frame 77, a second frame 78 and a third frame 79 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The first frame 77 is arranged in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second frame 78 is arranged along the vertical direction V on the third side of the first frame 77 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The second frame 78 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V. The third frame 79 is arranged along the vertical direction V on the fourth side of the first frame 77 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The third frame 79 is connected to the first frame 77 on the first side of the vertical direction V.

[0081] The second direct-acting device 60 is connected to the rotating device 75 via the second supporting member 81 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The second direct-acting device 60 moves the rotating device 75 along the second coordinate axis direction (refer to Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ).

[0082] According to this structure, the dimension of the inkjet recording device 10 in the direction of the third coordinate axis can be miniaturized relative to the inkjet recording device of the second comparative example as follows. In the inkjet recording device of the second comparative example, the rotating device that rotates the slide moves along the third coordinate axis together with the slide. In the inkjet recording device of the second comparative example, the moving object in the direction of the third coordinate axis includes the rotating device, so it is necessary to increase the dimension of the following area in the direction of the third coordinate axis. This area is necessary for the moving object to move in the direction of the third coordinate axis. In other words, this area becomes the moving path when the moving object moves in the direction of the third coordinate axis. In the above structure, the rotating device 75 does not move in the direction of the third coordinate axis, so the size expansion of the inkjet recording device of the second comparative example will not occur.

[0083] <Modification>

[0084] The embodiments may be described as follows. It is also possible to appropriately combine and adopt several structures in the following modified examples. The following describes the differences from the above, and appropriately omits the description of the same points.

[0085] (1) The following structure can also be used for an inkjet recording device having a line-type inkjet head. In this structure, the rotation axis R is set at a position that is consistent with the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V or at a position that is closer to the second side of the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V. In an inkjet recording device having a line-type inkjet head, the third direct-acting device 90 can also be omitted.

[0086] (2) The second direct-acting device 60 includes ball screws 61, 62, a drive motor 65, and a transmission mechanism 66 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The second direct-acting device may also have specifications different from this. For example, in the second direct-acting device, any one of the ball screws 61 and 62 may be omitted. In this case, the second direct-acting device may include a new guide. That is, in the second direct-acting device, a combination of a ball screw, a drive machine, and a guide may also be used. As examples of guides, the various guides mentioned above can be cited. However, in this modified example, a combination of a linear shaft and a linear bushing is exemplified as a guide.

[0087] The ball screw 61 is omitted. In this case, the driving machine is supported by the frame 11 and connected to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 62. For example, the driving machine is provided on a mounting member, and the mounting member is fixed to the frame 11. As the driving machine, a rotating machine such as a motor can be used as the driving machine 65. The driving machine rotates the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 62. In the guide member, the linear axis is provided along the second coordinate axis direction, similarly to the screw shaft 63 of the ball screw 61. The linear axis is supported by the frame 11. In the guide member, the linear bushing moves along the linear axis in the second coordinate axis direction. On the linear bushing, a second support member 81 (first mounting member 82) is fixed, similarly to the nut 64 of the ball screw 61. The guide member guides the movement of the first support member 76 accompanying the movement of the nut 64 of the ball screw 62 in the second coordinate axis direction.

[0088] (3) The rotating device 75 rotates the carriage 40 about the rotation axis R (see Figure 1 , Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 4~2 ). The rotation axis R is set along the direction of the third coordinate axis (refer to Figure 1 , 5 , 6). The rotation axis R is set at a position that is consistent with the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V. The rotation axis R can also be set at a position closer to the second side than the ejection surface 32 in the vertical direction V. According to such a structure, similarly to the inkjet recording device 10, during the movement of the reference position P1 from the fifth side to the sixth side in the first coordinate axis direction, the position (coordinate value) of the rotation axis R in the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction does not change from the sixth side to the fifth side in the first coordinate axis direction and from the seventh side to the eighth side in the second coordinate axis direction. In this inkjet recording device, it is also possible to facilitate the control of ink ejection.

[0089] (4) The first linear motion device 50 moves the recording medium 20 on the mounting table 51 along the first coordinate axis direction, thereby relatively moving the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 along the first coordinate axis direction (see Figures 1 to 4 ). The first direct-acting device can also move the slide along the first coordinate axis. In this case, the first direct-acting device can also support the slide, the second direct-acting device, the rotating device and the third direct-acting device so that they move as a whole relative to the recording medium 20 along the first coordinate axis. As the first direct-acting device, a linear motor actuator can be used, or a combination of a ball screw, a driving machine and a guide can be used. As examples of guides, the various guides mentioned above can be cited.

[0090] The third direct-acting device 90 moves the carriage 40 in the third coordinate axis direction so as to relatively move the carriage 40 and the recording medium 20 in the third coordinate axis direction (see Figure 1 , 5, 6). The third direct-acting device can also move the recording medium 20 in the direction of the third coordinate axis. In this case, the third direct-acting device can include a loading platform, and can also move the loading platform in the direction of the third coordinate axis. The recording medium 20 is placed on the loading platform, and the loading platform 51 is omitted in the first direct-acting device. For example, the third direct-acting device can also intermittently move the loading platform carrying the recording medium 20 from the fourth side in the direction of the third coordinate axis to the third side each time by a conveying distance T in the following moment, in the same way as described above. This moment is when the relative movement of the slide and the recording medium 20 in the direction of the first coordinate axis based on the first direct-acting device reaches the moving end on the fifth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis and the moving end on the sixth side in the direction of the first coordinate axis. In addition, the third direct-acting device can also move the loading platform from the third side in the direction of the third coordinate axis to the fourth side.

[0091] (5) The third side and the fourth side in the third coordinate axis direction may be opposite to those in the embodiment. That is, one side in the third coordinate axis direction as the third side may be set as the fourth side, and the other side in the third coordinate axis direction as the fourth side may be set as the third side.

[0092] Explanation of symbols

[0093] 10—inkjet recording device; 11—stand; 12—main tank; 13—ink flow path; 20—recording medium; 21—recording surface; 22—first surface; 23—inclined surface; 24—second surface; 30—inkjet head; 31, 31A, 31B—nozzles; 32—ejection surface; 33—supply port; 34—internal flow path; 35—main stream; 36—branch; 40—slide; 50—first direct-acting device; 51—carriage; 52—fixed member; 53—movable member; 60—second direct-acting device; 61, 62—ball screw; 63—screw shaft; 64—nut; 65—drive machine; 66—transmission mechanism; 67, 68, 69—gearbox; 70, 71—axis; 75—rotating device; 76—first support member; 77—first frame; 78—second frame; 79—third frame; 80—driving machine; 81—second support member; 82—first mounting member; 83—second mounting member; 90—third direct-acting device; 91—ball screw; 92—screw shaft; 93—nut; 94—driving machine; 95—guide member; 96—linear shaft; 97—linear bushing; A, B, C—position; D—separation distance; L—imaginary straight line; N—nozzle area; P1—reference position; P2—opposing position; R—rotating axis; T—conveying distance; V—vertical direction.

Claims

1. An inkjet recording device, characterized in that have: an inkjet head including a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink toward a recording surface of a recording medium; a carriage carrying the inkjet head; A first linear motion device that enables the carriage and the recording medium to move relative to each other in the direction of a first coordinate axis; a second direct-acting device that causes the carriage and the recording medium to move relative to each other in a second coordinate axis direction orthogonal to the first coordinate axis direction; as well as a rotating device that rotates the carriage around a rotation axis along a third coordinate axis direction orthogonal to both the first coordinate axis direction and the second coordinate axis direction, As for the inkjet head, A first side of the recording surface in a vertical direction perpendicular to the ejection surface including the plurality of nozzles is provided relative to the recording surface, and In a moving state where the carriage and the recording medium are relatively moved along the first coordinate axis direction by the first direct-acting device, the ink is ejected from the plurality of nozzles toward a second side opposite to the first side in the vertical direction. The plurality of nozzles are arranged on the ejection surface along the third coordinate axis direction, The second direct-acting device causes the carriage and the recording medium to move relatively in the direction of the second coordinate axis in the moving state. The rotating device rotates the carriage about the rotating axis in the moving state, and the rotating axis is set at a position that coincides with the ejection surface in the vertical direction or at a position closer to the second side than the ejection surface.

2. The inkjet recording device according to claim 1, wherein The rotating device rotates the carriage around the rotating axis, and the rotating axis is set at a position that coincides with the ejection surface in the vertical direction.

3. The inkjet recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A third direct-acting device is provided, the third direct-acting device causing the carriage and the recording medium to relatively move in the direction of the third coordinate axis.

4. The inkjet recording device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A third direct-acting device is provided, the third direct-acting device supports the carriage and moves the carriage in the direction of the third coordinate axis, The second direct-acting device moves the carriage in the direction of the second coordinate axis. The rotating device comprises: a first support member, which supports the third direct-acting device; a driving machine connected to the first supporting member and generating a driving force for rotating the first supporting member around the rotating shaft; and A second support member is provided with the driving machine and supports the first support member so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis. The first support member comprises: A first frame, which is arranged along the direction of the third coordinate axis; A second frame is disposed along the vertical direction on a third side of the first frame in the direction of the third coordinate axis and is connected to the first frame on a first side in the vertical direction; and a third frame, which is arranged along the vertical direction on a fourth side of the third coordinate axis direction of the first frame and is connected to the first frame on a first side of the vertical direction, and connected to the second support member via the second frame, and connected to the driving machine via the third frame, The second direct-acting device is connected to the rotating device through the second supporting member, so that the rotating device moves in the direction of the second coordinate axis.

Images